Tattoo Aftercare
Aftercare is crucial for ensuring your tattoo heals properly and looks great. Since tattoo artists may have different preferences, always follow the specific instructions given by your tattoo artist. This is a general guide, but make sure to check with your artist for any personalized care tips.
Bandage Care
- Adhesive Bandages: Some artists apply a clear adhesive bandage like Saniderm, Tegaderm, or DermShield after your tattoo.
- If the bandage starts lifting or becomes uncomfortable: Remove it right away.
- If there’s no irritation: Follow your tattoo artist’s instructions and leave it on for the recommended time.
- Once the bandage is removed: Clean the area and proceed with your aftercare.
Cleaning Your Tattoo
- Wash with Antibacterial Soap: Use a mild antibacterial soap, like Dr. Bronner’s or Dial Antibacterial Unscented Soap.
- How to Clean: Wet your hands, apply soap, and gently rub the tattoo with your fingertips to remove plasma or ink buildup. Don’t scrub—just gently clean the area.
- Drying: Gently pat dry with a clean paper towel. Do not leave it wet.
Moisturizing Your Tattoo
- Apply Ointment or Lotion: Depending on your artist’s recommendation, you may apply a thin layer of quality tattoo aftercare ointment.
- Thin Layer: The ointment should be a thin layer—nothing thick or sticky. Your tattoo should be able to breathe, so don’t suffocate the skin.
- Avoid Certain Products: Do not use Neosporin, hydrogen peroxide, Vaseline, or alcohol, as these can irritate the tattoo and hinder healing.
Additional Care Tips
- No Sun Exposure: Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and slow healing.
- Avoid Water Submersion: No swimming, hot tubs, or baths. Showers are fine, but try to avoid direct water flow on the tattoo.
- Pets: Keep your pets’ fur away from the tattoo while it’s healing. Their fur can introduce bacteria or other contaminants that could cause infection.
- Clean Sheets: Make sure your sheets are clean, especially if you have pets. Everyone has bacteria living on their skin, dirty sheets can introduce germs into a fresh tattoo, increasing the risk for infection.
- Pay Extra Attention in the First Few Days: The first few days of healing are critical, as this is when most infections can develop. Be extra cautious during this time, ensuring your tattoo stays clean, moisturized, and protected. Most infections occur within the first few days, so it’s important to baby your tattoo and stay on top of care.
Healing Can Vary
- Healing time can vary from person to person. Your age, health, and lifestyle play a big role in how well and how quickly you heal. Everyone heals differently, and some people may experience a rougher healing process than others. It’s important to be patient and follow aftercare instructions closely.
Touch-Up Information
- It’s not uncommon for tattoos to need a touch-up after the healing process. Don’t worry—this is completely normal and doesn’t mean the artist did a bad job. All of our artists offer one free touch-up after the tattoo has fully healed. If you feel that your tattoo needs a touch-up, please contact your artist directly to schedule a time for it.
Healing Scabs and Peeling
- Don’t pick at scabs: Let any scabs or flakes fall off naturally. Picking at them can cause scarring and loss of ink.
Contact Your Artist
- If you’re unsure about any part of your aftercare or notice something concerning, reach out to your tattoo artist directly. We’re also happy to help if you need assistance!